Which of the following is NOT an effect of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)?

• A. Increase the local sympathetic response and the general parasympathetic effect
• B. Increase in the contraction frequency of lymph collectors
• C. Eliminates the risk of re-accumulation after decongestion
• D. Re-route lymph flow around blocked areas into more centrally located, healthy areas

Answer: (C)

Manual Lymph Drainage aims to boost lymph propulsion and promote flow around congested areas. The technique tends to activate the parasympathetic system, producing a relaxing effect, and it can modulate local sympathetic activity toward that relaxation. It can increase the contraction frequency of lymph collectors, helping move lymph more effectively. It also helps re-route lymph around blocked areas into healthier, centrally located pathways, reducing stasis in those regions. However, it does not eliminate the risk of re-accumulation after decongestion. Edema can recur because lymph production continues, blockages may persist, and external factors (like gravity, activity, and tissue changes) influence drainage, so ongoing management with compression and exercise is still important. Therefore, the claim that MLD eliminates re-accumulation after decongestion isn’t accurate.